A man was punched and hit with a bat by several masked men, one of whom was brandishing a knife, in what police are treating as a sectarian hate crime in Ballymena.
The assault happened yesterday morning (Tuesday 5 November) in the Sentry Hill area just before 11:30am.
Detectives are appealing for information following the incident.
Detective Sergeant Lenaghan said police received a report that a man walking in the area, was attacked by several masked men.
“The man was punched and struck, possibly with a bat, while one of the assailants brandished a knife. Thankfully, he managed to struggle free and made his way to safety.
“We are treating this as a sectarian-motivated hate crime – the victim was subjected to verbal sectarian abuse during the attack.
“Hate crimes have no place in today’s society and will simply not be tolerated,” said Detective Sergeant Lenaghan.
The man managed to escape with bruising and cuts, but police say, it could have been more serious.
“He has, understandably, been left badly shaken by a dreadful ordeal,” added Detective Sergeant Lenaghan.
Police are appealing to walkers in the area who may have witnessed the incident to get in touch.
“Sentry Hill is a popular area with walkers. And I am appealing to anyone with information, or who witnessed any suspicious activity, to get in touch on 101, quoting reference number 1424 of 07/11/19,” added Detective Sergeant Lenaghan.
Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.